Maternal Healthcare in Maine

MaineHealth is considering closing a labor and delivery ward at Lincoln Hospital due to declining birth rates, staffing shortages, and difficulty recruiting a permanent OB/GYN. For expectant parents and healthcare workers alike, the proposed closure is causing distress within the community. Many believe that the maternity ward is too important to close; mothers will have to travel further when they are in labor, greatly increasing their risks. Residents also fear that the closure will lead to higher wait times at other nearby maternity wards and emergency rooms, and that a lack of maternity wards in the community will discourage families from moving there. Our Health Equity advocates for accessible and affordable maternal healthcare for all Americans, no matter where they live. Read more here.